If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, which was also rather eloquently illustrated in the last few days by Sony and now OnLive, it’s that you can’t beat free stuff as an attention grabber. We’re not entirely sure about this whole “give away the game you’re about to launch and which you expect people to pay for tomorrow” business model, but at least they’re probably getting people to try their platform, so that’s something.
The Appeal of Free Games
You may remember Amnesia: The Dark Descent as that indie horror game that people can’t shut up about, either gushing over it or expressing their disdain. The game, developed by Frictional Games, has garnered a cult following due to its intense atmosphere, gripping storyline, and innovative gameplay mechanics. For many, the opportunity to get this game for free is a significant draw. Getting it sounds like a snap; you just need to enter the either presumptuous or entirely decent, depending on how you look at it, “THANKYOU” promo code on the checkout page. This kind of promotion not only generates buzz but also encourages users to engage with the platform.
OnLive’s Strategy and Challenges
OnLive’s strategy to offer free games is a calculated risk. By giving away a popular title like Amnesia: The Dark Descent, they aim to attract a large number of users to their platform. This influx of users can lead to increased visibility and potentially more paying customers in the future. However, this approach is not without its challenges.
Firstly, the sustainability of giving away free games is questionable. While it may work as a short-term strategy to boost user numbers, it may not be viable in the long run. The cost of acquiring licenses for popular games and offering them for free can add up quickly. Additionally, there’s the risk that users may only sign up for the free game and then abandon the platform, leading to a high churn rate.
Secondly, playing the game might be an entirely different matter, since you know, OnLive. The platform has faced criticism in the past for issues related to latency and streaming quality. For a game like Amnesia: The Dark Descent, which relies heavily on atmosphere and timing, any lag or drop in quality can significantly impact the gaming experience. OnLive needs to ensure that their infrastructure can handle the increased load and provide a seamless experience to retain users.
Moreover, the competition in the gaming industry is fierce. Platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and even console-based services like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass offer a wide range of games and often have their own promotions and free game giveaways. OnLive needs to differentiate itself by not only offering free games but also providing a superior user experience and unique features that set it apart from the competition.
In conclusion, while the “give away the game you’re about to launch and which you expect people to pay for tomorrow” business model may seem unconventional, it has its merits. It generates buzz, attracts users, and provides an opportunity for platforms like OnLive to showcase their capabilities. However, the long-term success of this strategy depends on the platform’s ability to retain users, provide a high-quality gaming experience, and differentiate itself in a crowded market. Only time will tell if OnLive’s gamble will pay off, but for now, gamers can enjoy a free copy of Amnesia: The Dark Descent and decide for themselves.
Source OnLive Fans
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